All women, newborns and families have a right to quality midwifery care to promote a positive childbearing experience (World Health Organisation (WHO) 2025). Quality midwifery care is described by Martin et al (2025) as respectful, woman-centred care alongside clear communication to support informed decisions. Renfrew et al (2014) found that midwifery is a cost-effective way to improve public health. Her landmark study established that investment in midwives directly impacts health outcomes for women, newborns and families globally, with a reduction in maternal and neonatal mortality in excess of 80 per cent (WHO 2025). Renfrew et al’s (2014) research supported the development of the Standards of proficiency for midwives (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) 2019), the standards being used by practising midwives today. It is imperative midwives utilise current literature, aligning with The code’s requirement to ‘practice in line with best available evidence’ (NMC 2018).

While quality midwifery care positively impacts maternity outcomes, it regularly falls short in practice, with 47 per cent of maternity units identified as requiring improvement (Care Quality Commission (CQC) 2024). The Ockenden (Independent Maternity Review 2022) and Kirkup (2022) investigations highlighted numerous recommendations required to improve quality of care; however, progress in real-life changes remains slow.

The strive to provide quality care for every family continues with the NHS Three year plan (NHS England 2023) and the recent rapid investigation into maternity and neonatal services (Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) 2025).